Paul David Messinger

Life is too short. Would you agree? Well, now that I have that old rap song running through my head, time to focus. Give the people what they came here for: my story.

January 1st, 1971, Eugene. I started out almost famous. Missed being the New Year’s Baby of Sacred Heart Hospital by 20 minutes. My shot at glory. So close. My parents, Pamela (now Hale) and Steve Messinger, probably would have rather been out at the disco that New Year’s Eve or whatever old people did for fun back then. I joined my big brother, Steven, in climbing everything, crashing bikes, and basically keeping the Band-Aid company in business. Eventually, we were joined by the rest of the siblings: the twins Tammy and Elaine, Jennifer, Lindy, Michael, Jeremy, and Patrick. We fought and loved each other like only siblings can do. Teasing and tormenting each other but man, the good times. 

I had some wild times when I was young, but I learned some things and found my peace. I will take just a moment to apologize to anyone I may have hurt or kept up all night worrying. You know who you are. Thank you all for keeping the faith that one day I would finally…gasp…grow up. Grandma, I kept my promise: I am trying to be good.

Grew up and welcomed my son, David Lawless, and daughters, Tera Young and Victoria Messinger, into the world. I tried my best to be a good dad and show them the good stuff in life isn’t stuff. They turned out amazing and, in the end, I hope I did enough that as they live out their happy and healthy lives, they smile at some of the antics we shared along the way. The talks we had about everything and nothing, the camping trips, and that catfish that got away. Victoria, thank you so much for bringing my grandson, Kyrie, into the world and sharing his joy with me. 

OK here goes, I hope I don’t forget anyone! Stepdad Roger, Tarah, Tisha, Aunt Peggy, Paula, Persephone, Aunt Pat, Heather, Sharon, Aunt Penny, Matia, Christopher, Heaven, Savannah, and now the nieces and nephews: Cody, Austin, Ashlea, Isaac, Cameron, Kayden, Kendall, Kash, Elizabeth, and Bethany. 

I love you all. Peace.

postscript:

Paul David Messinger passed away on May 30, 2026 in Bend, Oregon. We miss you.

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